About IRRI

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science; improving the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; and protecting the rice-growing environment for future generations. IRRI is an independent, nonprofit, research and educational institute, founded in 1960 by the Ford and Rockefeller foundations with support from the Philippine government. The institute, headquartered in Los Baños, Philippines, has offices in 17 rice-growing countries in Asia and Africa, and over 1,000 staff.

Working with in-country partners, IRRI develops advanced rice varieties that yield more grain and better withstand pests and disease as well as flooding, drought, and other harmful effects of climate change.

Job Purpose

International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) with the support of the Government of India, Ministry of Agriculture, and Farmers’ Welfare has established IRRI-South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It is a regional facility that supports research collaboration, training, and service provision to institutions, scientists, farmers, and other stakeholders from India and other South Asian and African nations. Recently the government of India has accorded approval for ISARC phase 2 through MOU with IRRI to implement next phase activities up to 2027. It has three verticals: Centre of Excellence in Rice Value Addition (CERVA), Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Agriculture (CESA), and Centre of Education, Innovation, and Research for Development (CEIRD).

Under the guidance of the South Asia Breeding lead, IRRI is seeking applications forms for a dynamic and highly innovative Project Associate which will conduct haplotype diversity analysis to identify superior haplotypes associated with different traits. The individual will conduct next-generation sequencing analysis, with a focus on whole genome resequencing and transcriptome data analysis. Additionally, their strong knowledge of evolutionary analysis, supported by a track record of publications, will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of genetic variations and evolutionary dynamics. By conducting these analyses, the position aims to support the identification of genomic region associated with the targeted traits, development of improved crop varieties by identifying and utilizing the most favorable haplotypes for targeted traits.
Applicants will work in DBT-supported project at Varanasi.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Haplotype diversity analysis and identification of superior haplotypes for different traits.
• Perform next generation sequencing analysis, with the expertise in Whole genome resequencing, and transcriptome data analysis.
• Having good knowledge of evolutionary analysis with the proven track records with publications.
• Conduct the genotyping of mapping populations/germplasm/segregating populations with genome-wide SNPs/haplotype specific markers for all the collaborative NARES and other centers
• Actively participate in the planning and research meeting of Rice Breeding Planform and Rice Breeding SA Cluster
• Coordinate closely with the IRRI HQ team (RB Platform), IRRI-SA Hub, project partners, other NAREs collaborators, to ensure smooth flow of research activities, effective genotyping and phenotyping of germplasm.
• Engage with ISARC to help build capacity in modernizing computational biology programs and for the effective transfer of knowledge, technology and strategy.
• Verify the progress of the research activities as defined by the agreed plans and objectives
• Supervise and mentor a team of support staff
• Represent IRRI to a wide audience by presenting at conferences/meetings
• Participate/contribute to visits, meetings, workshops, farmers’ fairs, and any such events at ISARC and outside.
• Lead and support fund generation activities by contributing to proposal writing and creating new opportunities
• Any other tasks as assigned by ISARC Director.

Qualifications

Master’s Degree in Computational Biology/Bioinformatics or bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Technology or Medicine from a recognized University or equivalent

Skills Required

Mandatory:

• Proven ability to implement computational biology for crop improvement
• Proven ability to perform in multi-discipline and multi-cultural teams
• Excellent scientific and analytical skills
• Excellent interpersonal and organization skills

Preferred:

• Extensive experience in molecular breeding in rice
• Respectable publication record in peer reviewed journals

Allowances: In addition to the base salary indicated above, your will be entitled to HRA of 16% of the basic salary. IRRI also offers employee benefits package inclusive of medical insurance, life and accident insurance for self and dependents.

Join our team and be part of our story!